On Saturday, Jan 18, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) honored some of gospel music’s biggest names at the 5th annual ASCAP Presents: Morning Glory breakfast reception in Nashville, Tenn. The breakfast, one of the premiere events leading up to the 29th Annual Stellar Awards was well-attended.

ASCAP honored Grammy Award-winning artist Edwin Hawkins with the Gospel Icon Award. Tye Tribbett and Warryn Campbell were honored with the newly-established Spirit of Song Award, as well as recognized other 2014 Stellar Awards nominees.

Hosted by Pastor Marquis Boone of Fresh Start Church (Duluth, GA), the breakfast also featured special performances by gospel powerhouse Tasha Cobbs who sang her hit "Break Every Chain" which got the room on its feet. There were also performances by Grammy-nominated producer Chuck Harmony, and recording artists Jonathan McReynolds and Livre. Chuck Harmony performed 'O Happy Day' in tribute to Edwin Hawkins, demonstrating that the classic song has timeless appeal.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee who was instrumental in legislation that designated September Gospel Music Heritage Month dropped by briefly and greeted the honorees. Artists in attendance included Kelly Price, Anita Wilson, William McDowell, Thi’sl, Alexis Spight, Bryan Popin, Patrick Dopson, Dexter Walker, Zie’l and a host of others.

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Sarah has been a fan of gospel music since childhood. Her interviews include Cece Winans, Andraé Crouch, Richard Smallwood, Fred Hammond, Mary Mary and Charles Butler. Her on-location coverage includes The Stellar Awards, Dove Awards and other high-profile events where she provides readers with in-depth event coverage. Sarah is Editor-in-Chief of the online magazine PositivelyGospel.com where she provides updates on the latest gospel music news and reviews. In 2012, she was named one of the Top Ten Heroes in Gospel Music In the Washington DC Area. She is a member of the Gospel Music Association (GMA) and the Stellar Awards Gospel Music Academy (SAGMA). Contact Sarah.